County approves master plan for Benderson Park

Sarasota County took another step toward transforming what was formerly a shell pit skirting I-75 into an international rowing venue today, as commissioners approved a rezone for the 603-acre Nathan Benderson Park.

Though the park has hosted national and international regattas and events since 2009, the land was previously made up of three parcels with different zoning allowing single-family homes and estates. By rezoning the property into one governmental use designation, the Nathan Benderson Park Foundation and Suncoast Aquatic Nature Center Associates (SANCA) can move forward with more than $20 million in improvements planned for the park. The foundation is tasked with raising the funds for improvements.

“This will help us as we move forward with plans for the finish tower,” said County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Director Carolyn Brown during the meeting.

The foundation, which is responsible for raising funds for the park, aims to break ground on that $5 million tower in the next two months. There is also a boathouse, concessions or restaurant space, grandstands and fitness areas planned for Benderson Park.

In total, the foundation seeks to raise $22 million for future park improvements, including jumbotrons, an amphitheater for concerts, a children’s play area, the boathouse and more. 

The foundation also seeks to raise enough money to create an endowment to cover the park’s operational expenses longterm.